Softcase

Overview

Hannes Peer's Softcase for Minotti is a sofa system of one-piece seats that can be combined in many configurations. A shaped shell outlines the back, with a vertical seam in the centre and double stitching around the perimeter, in leather or fabric, and a horizontal detail in soft silicone gives the backrests their structure.

Image source: Minotti — Softcase · © Minotti and the respective rights holders. Quoted to accompany INTEBEE's independent design commentary and research. · View official product page ↗ · Image use & copyright policy

Construction

Plywood makes up the base, arms, backs and self-supporting back panels, with layers of polyurethane foam in varying densities. The seat and back cushions are goose-down filled in channels. A slim extruded aluminium frame, polished and brushed, follows the perimeter on adjustable polypropylene feet. In every version the upholstery is completely removable, and the back panels fit on with a quick-set, quick-release coupling.

Specifications

The Softcase sofa 232 cm drawing reads 232 cm wide, 109 cm deep and 89.5 cm high as the tallest reading of the side view, the seat at 41.5 cm and a second 67.5 cm height in that view. Feet are 7.5 cm high as standard; 9.5 cm feet or castor kits carry no surcharge if requested with the order. The wood used is FSC certified.

Defining the room

Minotti says Softcase was thought of as an architectural system that defines the living space instead of just furnishing it. Elements interact precisely, and the many configurations and customisation options let arrangements keep changing.

A softer square sofa

In Minotti's account, Softcase reworks the square-lined sofa with a clear formal language that recalls its design heritage, adding more plushness: volumes widen and relax into welcoming angles, turning rigour into a cosier, more immersive way of living. The shell's side profile follows a trapezoid traced along its outline.